Summit Group is preparing to enter Bangladesh’s fast-growing data centre market and plans to begin development with an external business partner within the next year, according to chairman Muhammed Aziz Khan. Speaking to Nikkei Asia, Aziz said the group’s first data centre would leverage the gas-based generation capacity of Summit Power International, while also drawing on Summit Communications’ nationwide fibre-optic network.
The proposed facility is expected to be located near Dhaka, close to Summit Power’s gas plants, giving the group control over electricity, fibre connectivity and land. Aziz said this integrated position could significantly reduce development timelines, allowing data centre capacity to be made available within 18 months, compared to the several years typically required.
Demand for data centres in Bangladesh is rising as internet and smartphone penetration accelerates the use of cloud services, mobile applications and artificial intelligence. Government investment in broadband expansion and digital infrastructure has further strengthened the outlook, while the adoption of the Personal Data Protection Ordinance last year may increase demand for local data processing by restricting overseas data transfers.
However, Summit’s strategy raises questions around sustainability at a time when Bangladesh is seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and shift away from fossil fuels. Aziz acknowledged these concerns, noting that the group is reassessing long-term energy models to include technologies such as carbon capture, while also exploring cross-border solar and hydropower imports from India, Nepal and Bhutan.
Political instability and infrastructure vulnerabilities remain key risks. Private investment in data centres has so far been limited, and renewable energy projects, including Summit’s planned offshore wind development, have faced delays following regulatory changes. Despite this, Aziz said global interest remains, adding that several major technology companies have expressed interest in the planned facility.
